Android versus iOS: A brief comparison

Legions of fans have sworn an unwavering loyalty toward their preferred mobile operating system. Without a doubt, the Android versus iOS debate has become a pop culture phenomenon. Armed with cash to purchase their latest Android or iOS device and with an access to the Internet to promote their cause, these people have demonstrated the extensive clout of modern consumerism.

With each side arguing for or against their preferred mobile operating system, the relentless comparison all boils down to preference—nothing more, nothing less. Here is a brief comparison between Android and iOS:

Android versus iOS: Apps availability and ecosystem

While popular apps are usually available for both Android and iOS, their development takes two different routes. Sometimes, small developers have a hard time developing apps for both operating systems.

iOS is a propriety software. This essentially means developers need to secure license from Apple in order to obtain source codes, as well as publication and distribution rights. The entire process can be costly and lengthy for some developers. This is especially true for small-time and independent developers.

On the other hand, Android developers need not go through such stringent process. Apart from the fact that source codes are free, developers enjoy access to several free-to-use developer tools. Furthermore, Google has less restrictive publication and distribution protocols. Assistance can also be sought from several online communities of independent developers and hobbyists.

This stark difference in app development creates considerable distinctions between the respective app ecosystems of Android and iOS. While there are a slew of popular apps available for both operating systems, there are those that are seemingly exclusive to either one.

In addition, some iOS app counterparts tend to have a higher price tag while their Android versions are usually cheaper or free. There are also more apps available for Android. However, in the great Android versus iOS debate, the latter wins in terms of offering high quality apps. Note that the app ecosystem of Android is populated by useless and spammy apps.

Android versus iOS: User interface and functional usability

If you are a seasoned and unbiased user of both Android and iOS devices, you will agree that your iPhone or iPad is more user-friendly than an Android phone or tablet PC.

An iOS device features a more intuitive software and hardware interaction. Its simplistic orientation and non-intimidating interface, coupled with its uniform aesthetics make it appealing to people across all ages. Note that simplicity and minimalism are central to the design philosophy of Apple. The company essentially offers a straightforward approach to mobile computing.

The simplicity of iOS has a downside: Users are not free to customise and personalise the look and feel of their iPhones or iPads to a certain extent. It is also worth mentioning that it is not easy to modify the source code of iOS unlike Android.

On the flip side, an Android device can be complicated because the operating system allows personalisation and customisation. Several Android apps enable users to change not only the theme and overall look and feel of the interface but also some specific system functions. For serious users with coding skills, they can even alter some software and hardware functionality. This makes Android appealing to tinkerers or advanced smartphone users, including young adults and tech hobbyists.

Android versus iOS: Device availability and accessibility

The most pronounced difference between Android and iOS is device availability and accessibility. In the Android versus iOS debate, the former wins.

iOS remains an exclusive operating system for Apple products—specifically the iPhone, iPad, and iPod. devices. Android, meanwhile, enjoys a widespread availability because several big shot and upstart manufacturers carry this operating system in their smartphone products. Those who prefer Android have thereby more options to choose from, including built or form factor, functionality, and of course, pricing.

Furthermore, devices from Apple are rather expensive. iPhones and iPads are as pricey as top tier flagship Android devices from manufacturers such as Samsung and Sony. However, there are also similar devices from other manufacturers that are considerably cheaper. Some Android devices are 10 times cheaper than an iPhone.